The Blackleg Miners
Lloyd · Other Songs - Lloyd
Oh, early in the evenin', just after dark,
The blackleg miners creep te wark,
Wi' their moleskin trousers an' dorty short,
There go the backleg miners !
They take their picks an' doon they go
Te dig the coal that lies belaw,
An' there's not a woman in this toon-aw*
Will look at a blackleg miner.
Oh, Delaval is a terrible place.
They rub wet clay in a blackleg's face,
An' roond the pit-heaps they run a foot
Wi' the dorty blackleg miners.
Now, don't go near the Seghill mine.
Across the way they stretch a line,
Te catch the throat an' break the spine
O' the dorty backleg miners.
They'll take your tools an' duds as well,
An' hoy them doon the pit o' hell.
It's doon ye go, an' fare ye well,
Ye dorty blackleg miners !
Se join the union while ye may.
Don't wait till your dyin' day,
For that may not be far away,
Ye dorty blackleg miners !
*toon-raw = town-row
Note: A black-leg is a scab.
From Folk Song in England, LLoyd
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The Blackleg Miners
Lloyd is best known for his smooth R&B vocals and romantic ballads, yet "The Blackleg Miners" stands as a distinct song in his discography. While the artist frequently explores themes of love and relationships in tracks like "You" and "Player's Prayer," this recording suggests a departure from his standard pop sensibilities. The title references a historical term for strike-breaking workers, hinting at a narrative depth or folk influence uncommon in his mainstream catalog. As a standalone piece, the song offers a glimpse into Lloyd's versatility, showcasing his ability to tackle subject matter beyond the typical romantic tropes that define his broader body of work. It remains a unique recording that adds texture to his musical identity.